Screen grab, CPAC
Ottawa is doing what they can to continue supporting First Nations communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
That’s the message from Marc Miller, the Minister of Indigenous Affairs.
“Over the last week, Indigenous Services Canada has sent out significant personal protection supplies, and is continuing to respond to asks with urgency,” says Miller, “…we’ve announced and are in the midst of transferring $305 million directly to Indigenous communities across the country, and continue to be focused on supporting the most vulnerable of the vulnerable.”
He tells us that in addition, for at least the next six months, Ottawa will continue to foot the bill for the costs of First Nations Child and Family Services for the youth who would have otherwise aged out of care.
Despite the current focus on the COVID-19 pandemic, Miller assures everyone that that won’t prevent Ottawa from assisting First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities in their times of need.
“We will continue to support you in responding to natural disasters like floods or fires, and will continue to work with all partners to make sure every community has the health services and supports throughout this difficult time.”
While they continue to support Indigenous communities, Miller says that they’ll keep repeating the message of physical distancing, self-isolation and hand washing, but do so in consciousness of the historical mistrust of government.
“This is a gap that needs to be filled by Indigenous leadership, and they are filling it exceptionally well. It does create a barrier to getting that important message out, but again as always Indigenous leadership is stepping up and I want to acknowledge that.”
The latest information shows a total of 15 confirmed cases in Indigenous communities across the country.
